News Brief
Arzoo Yadav
Oct 03, 2025, 05:32 PM | Updated 05:32 PM IST
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Varanasi launched trial runs for India’s first urban public transport ropeway on Thursday (2 October), marking a major step in sustainable urban mobility, reported The Times Of India.
The 3.8-kilometre eco-friendly corridor, constructed at a cost of Rs 815 crore, will feature five stations and 148 gondolas.
The ropeway aims to transport nearly one lakh passengers daily, enhancing connectivity across the city.
Pulkit Garg, Vice President of the Varanasi Development Authority, told news agency ANI that the project features five stations with spacious waiting areas and passenger-friendly facilities.
He added that the project cost includes 15 years of operation and maintenance, and the ropeway will operate with 148 gondolas.
“The Operation and Maintenance for 15 years are part of the project cost…Everyone here is very excited about this…This is entirely a green Infrastructure. There is a 3.8 km long corridor which will have 5 stations. At all these stations, various facilities will be available for the comfort of passengers. Large waiting and holding areas are also being constructed at all stations. Including the operation of 15 years, and other features, the project cost is Rs. 815 Crore…There are 3 levels of rescue systems in this,” Garg said.
He said that the ropeway is being developed by NHLML (National Highway Logistics Management Limited), a sister organisation of HAI, under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
“There will be 148 gondolas with a capacity of almost 1 lakh people running every day…A very visionary project is coming to Varanasi… I appeal to everyone to use this in a responsible manner,” Garg stated.
The ropeway project is expected to significantly improve urban transportation in Varanasi, combining innovation with eco-friendly design to meet the city’s growing mobility needs.
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